The term “Big Five” originally referred to the difficulty in hunting the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and African buffalo. These five large African mammal species were known to be dangerous and it was considered a feat by trophy hunters to bring them home. This amazing safari will take you to the top safari destinations in Tanzania’s Northern Circuit to witness the high concentration of wildlife including the Big 5.
Arusha (Google Map)
7:30 AM
On this tour expect a great focus on searching for the rhino, elephant, buffalo, lion, and leopard. This Big Five Safari evokes the imagination of viewing these majestic animals roaming in African Savanah.
Your Big Five Safari starts as we drive to Tarangire National Park. Once you reach the park, start exploring the area with the huge termite mounds and old baobab trees. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, celebrated for its diverse avian population and substantial elephant herds. There are regular sightings of giraffes, warthogs, ostriches, impala, cheetah, buffalo, baboons, and so much more.
Accommodation: Olea Farm Lodge
Meals & Drinks
After breakfast, kick off your safari adventure from Karatu, heading towards the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. Get ready to descend into this natural wonder, a UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with diverse wildlife. You’ll have an incredible opportunity to spot the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards – along with a myriad of other animals and vibrant birdlife. After an amazing game drive, we’ll ascend from the crater and journey towards the legendary Serengeti National Park. As the sun begins to set, we’ll arrive at your chosen lodge or camp within the Serengeti, where you can unwind, enjoy dinner, and prepare for another exciting day of exploration.
Accommodation: Serengeti Queens Camp
Meals & Drinks
After breakfast, you will begin a full-day game drive in the Serengeti. You will likely view hundreds of the diverse animals, including the “Big Seven” (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, cheetahs, rhinos, and African hunting dogs) that find their home within the Serengeti’s endless plains. You will also have the chance to view some of the park’s lesser-known, but equally majestic animals, including elands, hyenas, gazelles, crocodiles, giraffes, zebras, monkeys, baboons, hippos, and antelopes.
Accommodation: Serengeti Queens Camp
Meals & Drinks
Today, we’ll bid farewell to the Serengeti and begin our journey towards Karatu. Our route takes us through the stunning landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. We’ll make a stop at the famous Olduvai Gorge, often called the “Cradle of Mankind,” where you’ll learn about the significant archaeological discoveries that have shaped our understanding of human evolution.
Following our exploration of Olduvai Gorge, we’ll continue towards Karatu. If you’re interested in a cultural experience, we can arrange a visit to a traditional Maasai Village. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with the Maasai people, learn about their customs, and gain insights into their unique way of life. As we approach Karatu, you’ll check in to your lodge, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Accommodation: Olea Farm Lodge
Meals & Drinks
This morning, after breakfast, you’ll begin your journey from Karatu towards Arusha, offering a day filled with cultural immersion and scenic beauty. Our first stop will be Mto wa Mbu, a vibrant town known for its diverse culture. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to experience local life, interact with the community, and maybe even try some local cuisine.
From Mto wa Mbu, we have the option of a photographic visit to Lake Manyara National Park. Famous for its tree-climbing lions and abundant birdlife, Lake Manyara provides stunning photo opportunities.
After enjoying the cultural experience in Mto wa Mbu or the scenic beauty of Lake Manyara, we’ll continue our drive to Arusha, the gateway to your next adventure. Here you have several options. If Zanzibar is your next destination, we’ll make sure you reach Arusha Airport (ARK) for your connecting flight to the tropical paradise. Alternatively, if you’re staying in Arusha, we’ll take you to your chosen hotel.
Accommodation: No accommodation
Meals & Drinks:
Start and end in Arusha! Experience Tanzania’s legendary wilderness on a fully serviced camping safari following the northbound Great Migration through the Serengeti ecosystem. This adventure combines wildlife-rich national parks, cultural encounters, prehistoric heritage sites, and spectacular landscapes — all while enjoying immersive nights under canvas in carefully selected public or special campsites.
Experience the ultimate Tanzanian adventure with our 12-day Classic Northern Safari and Mafia Island escape! Explore the iconic Serengeti, witness the Great Migration, and encounter the diverse wildlife of Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Crater. Then, unwind on the pristine beaches of Mafia Island, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and discover the vibrant marine life of the Indian Ocean.
